I'm a "senior" driver and after owning a "Just a Cooper" six speed manual transmission Mini for a bit less than two years I sold it last year. I wanted more comfort, less "buzz" and a more tranquil daily ride.

I bought a 2007 Jaguar XJ8L which is about as drastic a change as I could imagine. Well, it's a year later and although the Jag is "classic" I find myself oddly unhappy and wondering if I made a mistake. The Jag does all I ask of it gets very good mileage considering the size (18/28 window mileage - I do at least that well) and has all the toys. It just doesn't do much to stir my emotions.

So, for those who may have had a similar situation and sold your Mini, are you happy with your choice? Was/is there a car that better combines the comfort of an "old man's" car with the fun of the Mini? My wife's 3 series BMW is a good ride, but the car is very heavy and complex, and doesn't give me much confidence that it will be easy to maintain as it ages.

Anyway, thanks for having a forum so I can "vent". I feel better all ready.

 

Well, I know my situation is a little different, but I was getting ready to get rid of my MINI and something (call it my driving emotion) stopped me just moments before I did. It was a weird experience - but, so far I'm glad I've decided to keep it.

 

Well len cap nothing much has changed, the MINI is still a loudish stiff ride without any excess room, it's also still about as much fun to drive as currently exist on the road today. Has anyone waved at you in the Jag?

 

I sold my mini in '08 for a Dodge truck. lasted a year or so with that. Replaced it with another small car the mkv gti. The gti, imho is better than the mini in almost everyway. But, it lacks the personality of the mini. I love everything about the mini. Thats why Im trying to unload my Gti for an R53 now. I regret selling my old mini thats for sure. I dont regret my M3 though its pretty fun.